I think that really desperateNicodemus not by dayBut by night dared to meet Jesus.
There the sunhad to stand still so long for Joshua,
so long until the victory was achieved;
But here Nicodemus wishes: “Oh, if only I saw it setting"!

Your beloved light which is otherwise brightfor me must be covered over with clouds,
so that I may ask for the master,
for I am afraid by day.
No man can do the miraclessince his omnipotence and essence,
it seems, is divinely chosen,
God's spirit must rest on him.

Therefore do not be astonished, O Master,
that I question you by night!
I fear that by daymy weakness cannot endure.
Yet I comfort myself, my heart and spiritareaccepted and taken up by you into life,
for all who only believe in you will not be lost.

Take courage, fearful and timid spirits,
recover, hear what Jesus promises:
that through faith I shall gain heaven,
when the promise is fulfilled,
there abovewith thanks and praiseI shall glorify the father, son and holy spiritwho are called triune.

In this way therefore webreak through to the gates of heavenand one day in your kingdomwe shall sing without endthat you alone are King,
high above all the gods,
Godthe Father, son and holy spiritprotector and saviour of the devoutone being, three persons.